Are there any recommendations available for mold open and close strokes, and the type of machine used?

If possible, it is recommended to use a machine that allows you to set your mold open and close speeds. When closing, it is recommended to reduce the closing speed in the last inch or so of travel, to minimize the amount of shock load applied to the two halves of the mold. If this feature is not available, then it is important to follow a frequent preventative maintenance schedule in which the mold base plates and components are checked for condition and either replaced or repaired of damaged.